Savory Balsamic Couscous with Fresh Tomatoes
This Savory Balsamic Couscous with Fresh Tomatoes is a delightful side dish that perfectly balances the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar with the freshness of ripe tomatoes. Inspired by a beloved recipe from '500 Almost Fat-Free Pasta Recipes', this light and flavorful dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal addition for potlucks or casual gatherings. The vibrant colors and textures make it not only delicious but visually appealing as well. It's a dish that proves that sometimes, taking a risk in the kitchen can lead to incredible results. Enjoy it warm or cold, and watch it become a favorite among your friends and family.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
8
Ingredients
Ingredients
Nonfat vegetable broth or nonfat chicken broth
2 cups (Bring to a boil)
Dried basil
1 teaspoon (Add to boiling broth)
Minced garlic
1 teaspoon (Add to boiling broth)
Uncooked couscous
1 1/2 cups (Add to boiling broth)
Balsamic vinegar
3 tablespoons (Mix with tomatoes)
Olive oil
2 teaspoons (Mix with balsamic vinegar)
Ground pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Mix with balsamic vinegar)
Small tomatoes
5 (Chop into bite-sized pieces)
Instructions
1
In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable or chicken broth to a rolling boil over medium heat.
2
Once boiling, stir in the dried basil and minced garlic, allowing them to infuse into the broth.
3
Add the uncooked couscous to the broth, cover the pan with a lid, and remove it from heat. Let it sit for 5-10 minutes until the couscous has absorbed the liquid.
4
While the couscous is resting, chop the small tomatoes into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
5
In a small bowl, whisk together the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and ground pepper. Gently fold in the chopped tomatoes to coat well in the dressing.
6
Once the couscous is ready, fluff it with a fork and add the tomato mixture, stirring gently to combine all ingredients evenly.
7
Serve the couscous warm as a hearty side dish, or allow it to chill in the refrigerator and serve it cold for a refreshing salad option.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Balsamic Couscous with Fresh Tomatoes?
It is a light and flavorful side dish that combines the tangy richness of balsamic vinegar with fresh tomatoes and herbs.
What are the main ingredients for this couscous recipe?
The main ingredients include uncooked couscous, vegetable or chicken broth, dried basil, minced garlic, balsamic vinegar, olive oil, ground pepper, and small tomatoes.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as long as you use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, this recipe is vegetarian.
Can I use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth?
Yes, the recipe suggests using either nonfat vegetable broth or nonfat chicken broth.
How much couscous is needed?
The recipe requires 1 1/2 cups of uncooked couscous.
How long does the couscous need to sit?
The couscous should sit covered off the heat for 5 to 10 minutes until the liquid is absorbed.
What kind of vinegar is used in this recipe?
Balsamic vinegar is used to provide a tangy and rich flavor.
Can I serve this dish cold?
Yes, you can serve it warm as a side dish or chilled in the refrigerator as a refreshing salad.
How many tomatoes are required?
The recipe calls for 5 small tomatoes.
Is this recipe healthy?
Yes, it is a healthy, light recipe inspired by fat-free pasta dish concepts.
How should the garlic be prepared?
The recipe requires 1 teaspoon of minced garlic.
Should the broth be boiling before adding the couscous?
Yes, bring the broth to a rolling boil before stirring in the seasoning and couscous.
Can I use fresh basil instead of dried?
While the recipe specifies dried basil, fresh basil can be used as a flavorful substitute.
What size should the tomatoes be chopped into?
The tomatoes should be chopped into bite-sized pieces.
How much olive oil is used in this dish?
The recipe uses 2 teaspoons of olive oil.
Can I bring this dish to a potluck?
Yes, its quick preparation and versatility make it an ideal addition for potlucks.
How do I fluff the couscous?
Once the couscous has absorbed the liquid, fluff it gently using a fork.
Does the recipe include black pepper?
Yes, it uses 1/4 teaspoon of ground pepper.
What was the inspiration for this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by a dish from the book '500 Almost Fat-Free Pasta Recipes'.
How do I combine the dressing and tomatoes?
Whisk the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, and pepper together, then gently fold in the chopped tomatoes.
Is this a main dish or a side dish?
It is primarily served as a savory side dish.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 8 ingredients in total.
What is the preparation for the broth?
The broth should be brought to a rolling boil over medium heat.
How much broth is needed?
You will need 2 cups of nonfat vegetable or chicken broth.
What should I do if the couscous is dry?
Ensure the pan is covered with a lid while resting to properly steam the couscous.
Can I add other vegetables?
While the recipe focuses on tomatoes, you can customize it with other fresh vegetables.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Yes, the savory and slightly sweet balsamic flavor is generally appealing to all ages.
How much dried basil is used?
The recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of dried basil.
When do I add the garlic?
The minced garlic is added to the broth once it is boiling.
What do I do with the pan after adding couscous?
Cover the pan with a lid and remove it from the heat immediately.